Read John 5:31-40 NIV
“If I testify about myself, my testimony is not true. There is another who testifies in my favor, and I know that his testimony about me is true.
“You have sent to John and he has testified to the truth. Not that I accept human testimony; but I mention it that you may be saved. John was a lamp that burned and gave light, and you chose for a time to enjoy his light.
“I have testimony weightier than that of John. For the works that the Father has given me to finish—the very works that I am doing—testify that the Father has sent me. And the Father who sent me has himself testified concerning me. You have never heard his voice nor seen his form, nor does his word dwell in you, for you do not believe the one he sent. You study the Scriptures diligently because you think that in them you have eternal life. These are the very Scriptures that testify about me, yet you refuse to come to me to have life.
Jesus Healing on the Sabbath Reading
“The Pharisees said, ‘Look! Why are they doing what is unlawful on the Sabbath?’” — Mark 2:24
“Traditional religion says, ‘I give God a good moral record, so he has to bless me.’ The gospel says, ‘God gives me a good moral record through Christ, so I want to bless him.’” — Tim Keller
Jesus faced critics who prioritized rules over grace. Don’t let fear of judgment hold you back from receiving His healing. Sabbath rest includes freedom from accusation — both from others and from your own heart.
Reflection Questions:
How can I let Jesus’ voice of compassion be louder than voices of accusation in my life?
Do I fear criticism from others when I step into what God has for me?
Am I more focused on appearances than on experiencing real healing from Jesus?
